Which labor organization explicitly included women, African-Americans, and immigrants in its membership?

The Knights of Labor is recognized for being one of the first significant labor organizations in the United States to advocate for inclusivity across diverse demographic groups, including women, African-Americans, and immigrants. Founded in 1869, this organization sought to unite all workers, regardless of their background, and believed that collective action could lead to better working conditions and fairness in the workforce.

This inclusivity was a radical departure from many labor organizations of the time, which often excluded certain groups, particularly based on race and gender. The Knights of Labor aimed to bring together individuals from various sectors of society, believing that a united front would enhance their bargaining power and improve labor conditions across the board.

In contrast, the American Federation of Labor primarily focused on skilled laborers and often did not prioritize the inclusion of women, African-Americans, or immigrant workers. The National Labor Union was more focused on unifying skilled workers but also had limitations regarding inclusivity, particularly for marginalized groups. The Industrial Workers of the World later emerged with a similar focus on inclusivity, but it was founded after the Knights of Labor and their initiatives. Thus, the Knights of Labor stands out for its commitment to inclusivity in its membership right from its inception.